Monday, June 12, 2017

Roundtable Discussion on Technology, Terror, and Ideology: A New Triangle with Shiv Murari Sahai | June 15 | at ORF Conference Room, New Delhi

The extensive integration of technology and the internet with human lives has transformed conflict. On the one hand, technology provides those living in zones of conflict a voice to convey their concerns to a global audience. On the other, terrorist organisations make use of the same platforms to incite violence and spread radicalisation.

Social media has often served as a fuel for civil conflict and public unrest – there have been instances of viral fake news resulting in violent clashes in various parts of the globe and in India, including in Jammu and Kashmir. There are associated debates around internet shutdowns (that is a frequently used option by law enforcement agencies), use of encrypted communication for mass mobilization and on the most important question of freedom of expression

Today, policymakers in India are faced with some important questions including: 1. What steps can be taken to use the internet to diffuse violence instead of restricting access to the internet? 2. What steps can the government take to deter the dissemination of fake news that threatens public order? 3. What regulatory approaches should be adopted to control the proliferation of anonymising tools on the internet in a manner that does not dilute human rights? The crucial objective of an uninterrupted, open, free and secure internet must guide any discussion and outcome. In light of these questions, the Observer Research Foundation is hosting a roundtable discussion - on Technology, Terror, and Ideology: A New Triangle - with Shiv Murari Sahai. Mr Sahai is currently posted as Joint Secretary in the National Security Council Secretariat, the policy making body for national security issues. He began his career in the state of J&K as a police officer where he served as district heads of Baramullah and Jammu during the peak of militancy. He was head of the Police in Kashmir Zone for 2 terms where he made landmark contributions through innovative policing including through a people-centric approach to curbing terrorism and violent unrest. He was head of the state intelligence before moving to Delhi.